Originally homeland of the Midwestern Native American tribe the U-mo'n-Ho'n, (the Omaha People) today Omaha, Nebraska is a bustling riverfront city. Situated on the west bank of the deep, fast Missouri River in another era the tall prairie grasslands were filled with buffalo. Today you can see reminders of its history through public art installations everywhere from public plazas to parking structures throughout downtown.
The Lewis and Clark Expedition traveled through this area and like many other places along the trail they camped, hunted, fished, and met with the Native people. At the Omaha Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Visitor Center guests can meet with Park Rangers to learn more about the National Historic Trail and plan their own route following the trail.
Omaha evolved into a town for western trailblazers passing though or settling down. You can experience a depiction of this at the First National's Spirit of Nebraska's Wilderness and Pioneer Courage Park. The collection of larger-than-life metal sculptures share an artistic interpretation of wagon trains and people who contributed to America’s westward expansion during the 19 century. Later railroading pioneers brought the train which brought farmers, corn, cattle, and stockyards with neighboring packinghouses. This is why Omaha is known for great steak!
Today in the Old Market neighborhood you can also experience the environment and buildings of Omaha’s past. The area retains its brick paved streets, many old buildings, and in warm weather offers rides in horse-drawn carriages and street performers. Many restaurants offer live entertainment, and there are art galleries and shopping. We stumbled into a playful toy and costume shop that was a mix of vintage collectables, garage sale finds and new items. The Art Deco train station is a museum where visitors can explore passenger cars and an old schoolhouse. For those interested in architectural history take a free self-guided walking tour https://oldmarket.com/old-market-history .
A must do spot in Omaha is a walk across the 3,000 ft long BOB bridge. The bridge connects two states Nebraska and Iowa, and you can stretch your legs out and be in both states at once. For those that are interested in adding storytelling to your walk there is an app about OMAR a blue troll that was created by the Visitors Bureau that will lead you through the experience. You can also see a sculpture of OMAR under the bridge. Dive into the refreshing water at the splash pad right next to him on a hot summer day. If you are lucky you will also see break dancers practicing their moves under the bridge.
